April 2025
Two Asian short clawed otters, Indigo & Bronte have arrived at Ark wildlife park, the pair were rescued from the exotic pet trade after being illegally smuggled in the back of a van across borders in Europe.
Jamie Mintram, from the Ark, said: “This young pair of otters have had a particularly bad start to life, having been discovered kept in sub-standard conditions, and at a young age, they are struggling to swim – something you’d think is a fundamental part of being a happy healthy otter.”
“Most likely this is due to being removed from mum at a very young age,” he continued. “Without her guidance and the lack of a suitable environment, they never learnt to swim.”
They’re settling in well to their new spacious accommodation in Lincolnshire, complete with their own pond, and with encouragement from the keepers they’re starting to find their confidence in the water.